PROGRESS VALLEY - Key Persons
Alex completed his bachelor's degree in philosophy at Minnesota State University Mankato, and he earned his master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Wisconsin Stout. Alex started at Progress Valley as an intern, working in the men's and women's residential programs. Soon after, he moved into a full-time clinical role at the men's residential program. Now he is an outpatient counselor, focusing on providing mental health services.
Having built a career helping manage finances for large corporations, Andy has developed a passion to help others on my team march toward a common goal. The work of many rowing in one direction can change lives, and he is committed to doing his part. Andy's personal journey in recovery plays a critical role in his everyday life and makes him a better husband and father.
Andy and his wife have twin daughters. They know that service is a huge part of their responsibility and an opportunity to show them the beauty in this world. He is proud to be associated with Progress Valley because the work the amazing team does every day changes the world for generations to come one day and moment at a time.
Callie has worked in the mental health field for over six years. She has experience with a wide range of clients, including people with chemical dependency, young adults, and children/adolescents. Callie is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Her counseling style is person-centered and holistic. She uses a variety of therapy methods to help clients reach their goals.
Chris has a 20-plus-year career in finance and accounting, and most of his work has been dedicated to nonprofit organizations. He earned a BA in Accounting and an MBA from Augsburg University. Chris is father to three amazing children, two girls and a boy. He has been a passionate high school lacrosse coach since 1999, and he is currently part of the Spring Lake Park-Coon Rapids High School Boys coaching staff.
Job Titles:
- Maintenance Manager
- Maintenance Manager He / Him / His
Ericka has been in commercial real estate for over 20 years doing what I love. Currently, she works as a multi-family housing developer at a company that is passionate about building homes that people and the community can be proud of. She is married (20 yrs this year!) with two active, smart, and hilarious boys. She serves on the board not only because of the great need for services but also because of the integrity, dedication, and strong belief in the mission that the leadership team and all of the staff at PV have for the work they do.
Faith joined Progress Valley's clinical staff in 2021 and has worked in the PV1, PV2, and outpatient programs. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology at the University of Kansas and Master of Arts in Co-Occurring Disorders at Adler Graduate School. Faith also has more than three years of experience working in client care and admissions in adolescent residential settings. Faith is a dog mom to a nine-year-old retriever mix named King, who is very much ruler of their household!
Job Titles:
- Manager
- Sober Housing Manager
Jeff has over 25 years of experience in building, construction, and project management. He joined the Board in September 2016. Progress Valley provides valuable experiences by networking with senior executives and seasoned business leaders, outside of his own profession. Volunteering on the board is a leadership opportunity to actively serve others. Supporting the cause of Progress Valley is a privilege to make a difference in our local communities as well as advance their mission. Progress Valley is a special place that creates opportunities in giving people second chances and Jeff is always so pleased of hearing the many stories of life changes clients have made.
Kim has worked at the PV Women's Program since 2010. She obtained her BA Degree in Psychology with a minor in counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. She later returned to school to become an Addiction Counselor. Kim has worked with adolescents and thoroughly enjoys her work with women. Her counseling interests are in self-esteem and developing self-efficacy.
Job Titles:
- Director of Development & Communications
Lisa has worked in the nonprofit field for over 25 years, with experience in fundraising and event management. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree from Metropolitan State University in Human Services Administration with a focus on nonprofit management. Lisa joined Progress Valley in 2013.
She oversees fundraising, grant writing, events, communications, marketing, and outreach. Lisa strongly believes in the mission of Progress Valley and loves sharing client and alumni successes. In her time away from work, Lisa enjoys outdoor activities, spending time with family and friends, traveling, outdoor concerts, and getting creative through sewing, crafts, and photography.
Born and educated in Mexico City, Luis has been in Minnesota over 35 years now. He's received the Title of Certified Public Accountant from La Salle University, and received his post-graduate education from the University of Minnesota with a Master's in Business Administration.
Samantha is in long-term recovery. For the last five years, she hasn't used any illicit drugs or done anything to sabotage her life. She is a part-time student and a single mom with an amazing five-year-old daughter. In her spare time, Samantha likes to visit new restaurants, crochet, and binge tv shows with her cat, Pickles.
Renee obtained her B.A. in Psychology from the University of Minnesota and later returned to school to complete her alcohol and drug counseling licensure. She enjoys working with all client populations, and her counseling interests focus on trauma and its relationship to addiction.
Sarah earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Minnesota, with a major in communications and a minor in psychology, and an LADC certificate from Minneapolis Community and Technical College.
She loves spending time with her family, especially her three nieces and her orange tabby kitty, Milo. She enjoys learning new things, spending time with friends, doing arts and crafts, being outside, hiking, and traveling.
Shawn Larsen, RN is a skilled healthcare executive with a history of successful accomplishments in enhancing operational excellence, quality outcomes, revenue growth, and compliance. He has held leadership roles at distinguished healthcare organizations including Aetna, Bright Health, Advantmed, and Humana. He is married and enjoys spending time with his three dogs, playing softball, and being with loved ones. Shawn is enthusiastic about Progress Valley's mission and vision and is passionate about advancing initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles.
Job Titles:
- Director of Human Resources
Tanya started with Progress Valley in 2007 as an overnight CD tech while earning her LADC. Her first counseling job was at Progress Valley men's program. Later, she became program manager. In 2021, she transitioned to human resources, and she recently completed her master's degree in HR Management. She and her husband have a five-year-old daughter. They enjoy spending time together crafting, baking, and playing games.
Travis has been in recovery since 2011 and has worked in the addiction field since 2013. He obtained his Graduate Certificate in Addiction Counseling from Winona State University as well as his LADC in 2019. Travis feels blessed with a beautiful wife, Karine, a wonderful home, a pair of rescue dogs, and a peace that goes beyond any understanding. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, biking, hiking and anything outdoors.
Job Titles:
- Coordinator
- Sober Housing Coordinator
Zahra is a pre-licensed therapist, and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Providing culturally responsive services are an important part of client care. Her passion is to work with clients from diverse backgrounds that include individuals with disabilities, clients experiencing substance use related issues, and culturally specific clients from various nationalities. She is fluent in the languages of English, Arabic, and Somali. Her main specialization is in grief counseling, psychosis, and trauma.
Zahra believes that every client has potential for growth, and empowering clients is my main initiative in the therapeutic process in helping them set goals through the use of goal tracking sheets. Enhanced illness management and recovery (EIMR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and application of trauma informed care principles are her therapeutic approaches. Our challenges are what make us strong, and together we can strive to find healing.